VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis on Saturday made the most significant appointment of his pontificate so far, naming a longtime diplomat as his secretary of state, Vatican prime minister and chief aide — a role often called the “deputy pope.”

The new secretary of state, Archbishop Pietro Parolin, will succeed Cardinal Tarcisco Bertone, who was widely criticized as failing to prevent ethical and financial scandals that marred the eight-year reign of Pope Benedict XVI, who resigned in February…

Now, after nearly six months in office, Pope Francis has set in motion a timetable for Vatican administrative reform.

The retirement of Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the appointee of former Pope Benedict seven years ago, and his substitution by a much younger and more experienced Vatican diplomat who is also an accomplished linguist, is just the first stage in an ambitious plan drawn up by Pope Francis to bring the slow-moving papal court into the world of the 21st Century…

The new secretary of state will take over his job in mid October – after Pope Francis has chaired an inaugural meeting on 1 October of a council of eight cardinals from around the world whom he has appointed to advise him on Church policy. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-23913610

While Cardinal Bertone is getting up in years and has had issues, the fact that Francis is such a Marian pontiff and follower of Fatima meant, to me at least, that Cardinal Bertone would have to go.

Various ones at the Fatima Center have long criticized him and frequently have suggested that he is a liar. Notice one such direct accusation from Catholic writer and attorney Christopher Ferrara:

While I will not accuse Cardinal Bertone of directly lying in this post, I will state that related to facts surrounding Fatima, the late Sister Lúcia (one of three children who claimed to see the ‘Lady of Fatima’ in 1917) have trouble with a lot of facts and she did lie about many things.

One of the things that the Fatimists did not like about Cardinal Bertone was his indication that the full “third secret” of Fatima had been released. One odd thing that Cardinal Bertone wrote was the following:

The decision of His Holiness Pope John Paul II to make public the third part of the “secret” of Fatima brings to an end a period of history marked by tragic human lust for power and evil, yet pervaded by the merciful love of God and the watchful care of the Mother of Jesus and of the Church. (Bertone T, Cardinal, CONGREGATION FOR THE DOCTRINE OF THE FAITH. THE MESSAGE OF FATIMA, INTRODUCTION http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/congregations/cfaith/documents/rc_con_cfaith_doc_20000626_message-fatima_en.html viewed 05/05/2011)

Some of the above was odd of Cardinal Bertone to write as humans still are in a period marked by lust for power and evil. This did not end in the year 2000.

Concerning whether other parts of the third secret exist, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Bertone, in 2008, published:

There is no “first document”…we have the word, better, the official confirmation, of Sister Lúcia…

”Yes, this is the Third Secret and I never wrote any other.”

…The…prophecy is no longer open to the future, but refers to something in the past. (Bertone T Cardinal, with De Carli, Guiseppe. The Last Secret of Fatima. Doubleday, 2008, pp. 64,65)

So, Cardinal Bertone’s position seemed to be that Lúcia confirmed that the letter represents the entire third secret, there is nothing more to it, and it has been fulfilled. Yet, many authors who have looked into this matter have concluded otherwise (and even Cardinal Bertone seemed to have changed his statement in 2011).

Well, that being said, Cardinal Bertone’s Vatican influence is in the process of being reduced.

Today, I received a press release from the Fatima Center that had the following definition about Mariology:

Mariology — that aspect of Catholic theology that focuses on Our Lady’s place in the plan of salvation. (Father Karl Stehlin to Speak at “FATIMA: THE PATH TO PEACE!” CONFERENCE. Fatima Center Press Release, August 31, 2013)

Obviously, from a biblical perspective, this is all wrong. Yet, the Fatima Center and Pope Francis are pushing a Marian agenda. Although Pope Francis sometimes mentions Jesus, his version of ‘Mary’ is a major focus of his.

Syria is an ally of Russia and has been the location of Russia’s only warm weather naval base (and Russia has been trying to make other arrangements). Russia would prefer to back Syria, but it will not back Syria to the point that it is perceived to be against Russia’s strategic interests. Presuming that the USA does, in fact, launch some type of attack (which it has indicated that it will do), Vladimir Putin will likely see that as increased justification for his plans to strengthen and expand Russia’s military as well as its regional influence.

However, according to Bible prophecy, Russia is not the one that will lead an attack against the USA, that would be Europe (watch the video Can You Prove that the Beast to Come is European?). So, while Vladimir Putin may complain, it is not likely that he intends a major military conflict with the USA over Syria.

There are many in the USA and places other than Russia that have concerns about Syria. Notice also the following:

Amid Skepticism, White House Tries to Shore Up Support

August 31, 2013

The White House on Saturday moved to shore up domestic and international support for a possible military strike against the Syrian government in retaliation for a chemical weapons attack on its own people, as United Nations inspectors left Syria…

Privately, some American officials acknowledged mistakes over the past week in their buildup for a strike, leading British lawmakers to reject participation on Thursday. It is unclear when Mr. Obama realized that the British vote would go against him, but it was not until Friday afternoon that the White House released what it said was evidence of chemical weapons use by the Assad forces — nearly 24 hours after Parliament had voted rather than beforehand, when it might have been used to build a coalition against Mr. Assad.

The Bible itelf teaches that Syria’s capital Damascus will be destroyed (Isaiah 17:1). Thus, it would appear that steps being taken by the USA, Russia, Syria, Iran (e.g. Iran threatens to burn down Israel if USA attacks Syria), Israel, and others will somehow lead to that outcome.

Some articles of possibly related interest may include:

Russia: Its Origins and Prophesied Future Where do the Russians come from? What about those in the Ukraine? What is prophesied for Russia and its allies? What will they do to the Europeans that supported the Beast in the end?Is Russia the King of the North? Some claim it is. But what does the Bible teach? Here is a link to a video, also titled Is Russia the King of the North? The Eurasian Union, the Kings of the East, and Bible Prophecy Is there a Eurasian union that will be formed? Is one being formed right now? Are any leaders working on that in the 21st century? Does the Bible teach that there will be a Eurasian union? If some type of Eurasian union is formed, who might it benefit and who will it destroy? A related video would be Is The Eurasian Union Rising?Anglo – America in Prophecy & the Lost Tribes of Israel Are the Americans, Canadians, English, Scottish, Welsh, Australians, Anglo (non-Dutch) Southern Africans, and New Zealanders descendants of Joseph? Where are the lost ten-tribes of Israel? Who are the lost tribes of Israel? What will happen to Jerusalem and the Jews in Israel? Will God punish the U.S.A., Canada, United Kingdom, and other Anglo nations? Why might God allow them to be punished first?Will the Anglo-Nations be Divided and Have People Taken as Slaves? Will the lands of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand be divided? What about Jerusalem? What does Bible prophecy teach? Are there non-biblical prophecies that support this idea? Who will divide those lands? Who will end up with the lands and the people? Here is a link to a video titled Will the USA and other Anglo-nations be Divided and Their People Made Slaves? The Bible Condemns Homosexuality “Same-sex marriage” for “gays” and lesbians is becoming more acceptable to many. What does the Bible teach about homosexuality? Can homosexuals change?Will USA Spying Help the Beast Power? Various allegations have surfaced about the United States government spying on its own citizens as well as its supposed allies in the European Union. Whether or not all the allegations are true, and the main ones have not been publicly denied by the government of the USA, the reality is that this does have prophetic ramifications and will help the Beast of Revelation. This video provides quotes from the Bible showing how this is so. The USA is placing itself in a position to be taken over and its response to the allegations will make it easier for the Europeans to do so.Prophecies of Barack Obama? Reasons why Barack Obama is apocalyptic and reasons why Barack Obama is not the Antichrist. This article includes many biblical and non-biblical prophecies, from around the world, that seem to discuss Barack Obama. Did Nostradamus predict Barack Obama dealing with the Antichrist? Might Barack Obama set the stage for the kings of the North and South as at least one Shiite prophecy suggests? Read it and decide for yourself if President Obama seems to be fulfilling various prophecies.Is There an Islamic Antichrist? Is Joel Richardson correct that the final Antichrist will be Islamic and not European? Find out.Damascus and Syria in Prophecy Will Bashar Assad hold power as he has it? Does the Bible show that Damascus, the capital of Syria, will be destroyed? What will happen to Syria? Will the Syrians support the final King of the South that the Bible tells will rise up? Which scriptures discuss the rise and fall of an Arabic confederation? Does Islamic prophecy predict the destruction of Syria. This is a YouTube video.The Arab World In the Bible, History, and Prophecy The Bible discusses the origins of the Arab world and discusses the Middle East in prophecy. What is ahead for the Middle East and those who follow Islam? What does Islam teach about the Imam Mahdi?Is the Future King of the South Rising Up? Some no longer believe there needs to be a future King of the South. Might Egypt, Islam, Iran, Arabs, or Ethiopia be involved? Might this King be called the Mahdi or Caliph? What does the Bible say?The Future King of the South is Rising Does the Bible teach that there will be a future King of the South in Daniel 11? Is this kingdom rising up now? Did the old Worldwide Church of God (WCG) teach that there would be another one? And who is the King of the South? How will this involve Egypt? Is the final King of the South some type of Arab-Muslim confederation? Can Iran be involved? Is there a group that seems to be supporting the goals of the King of the South? Has the Obama Administration supported the rise of this power? This is a YouTube video.The Muslim Brotherhood and the Rise of the King of the South The Bible tells of the formation of a power of nations that are in the Middle East and North Africa that are part of the final “King of the South” (Daniel 11:40-43) The Muslim Brotherhood wishes to have an Islamic empire with basically the same nations. This YouTube video explains what to expect from such a confederation.

Posted in Prophecy | Comments Off on Putin: Syria Attack Would be ‘Utter Nonsense’

The Bible tells of an end time leader called the “King of the North.” This video sermon goes through scriptures in Daniel 11, Revelation 13, and elsewhere to identify biblically who this leader is and some of what he will do. Will he destroy the USA, its Anglo-allies, and a coming Arabic confederation? Is he the same leader that Catholic prophets have referred to as the “Great Monarch”? While the Bible warns against him, many will embrace him. What will happen to the King of the North and his followers?

.Prophets, in the biblical sense of the word, seem to come few and far between…
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A prophet in the biblical sense is not someone who gazes into crystal balls or reads tea leaves in an effort to predict the future. A prophet is an individual who speaks God’s truth to his contemporaries, calls attention to sin and warns of the consequences for failing to repent of falling short of the Lord’s expectations.

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Prophets are needed when a nation embraces practices and policies that transgress God’s clearly articulated expectations. When a society promotes materialistic hedonism, gangrenous greed and fiscal irresponsibility, a prophetic voice is needed.

And that is essentially true. But at least some of Protestants seem to recognize the need for a prophet. And if they would heed, they could follow one, but they generally will not. Many who claim to be part of the COG have difficulties heeding the voice of one as well.

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Matthew 24:14 will be fulfilled. Who is leading the final phase of the work? What did Herbert Armstrong and the old WCG teach about that and about prophets? Does Bob Thiel meet the criteria that the Bible and the old WCG set? What is the proof? What has the Continuing Church of God been doing? These questions are addressed in the video titled: Leading the Final Phase of the Work.

The USA, UK, and France have all been making statements about attacking Syria. Various ones have concerns about this:

August 30, 2013

Speculation is rife about the possible timing of U.S. air strikes on Syria, after President Barack Obama announced Wednesday that he is considering a military response to the Syrian army’s alleged use of chemical weapons. The administration now has to decide on the best time to launch a strike…”I think here, too, there is going to be a desire on the part of the Obama administration to make sure that it is not left to go it alone if it does move against Syria, to marshal support from the European states, in particular from the U.K. (Britain), France and Germany to make sure that if there is military action against Syria, it’s not American, but it’s allied action,” Berman said.

Retired U.S. Air Force officer Sam Gardiner told Alhurra TV that coalition building efforts have stalled, but that the preparations for a strike are going on.

“U.S. forces are in place ready to conduct a strike at any minute,” he said…

Jeremy Bowen reports from Damascus: ”You could sense the tension in the face of what feels here like an impending attack”

France is still ready to take action in Syria alongside the US, despite UK MPs blocking British involvement, President Francois Hollande has said.

He told Le Monde newspaper a strike within days could not be ruled out…

“France will be part of it. France is ready.”

He ruled out strikes while the UN inspectors were in Syria. However he did not rule out the possibility that military action could be taken before next Wednesday, when the French parliament is due to debate the issue.

Neither France nor the US need parliamentary approval for action, and Secretary of State John Kerry said the US could not be held to the foreign policy of others.

Colonel Bob Stewart MP, a member of British Prime Minister David Cameron’s Conservative Party, expressed “total shock” to The Jerusalem Post on Friday at a House of Commons votethat rejected a motion holding Syrian President Bashar Assad accountable for the mass use of chemical weapons on August 21 in the Damascus suburb of Ghouta…

“Fundamentally, the Conservative Party are very sad today, and this is a blow to David Cameron. But more importantly, this is a blow to Britain’s international prestige,” Stewart said.

The Obama administration’s plan to launch a military strike against Syria is being received with serious reservations by many in the U.S. military, which is coping with the scars of two lengthy wars and a rapidly contracting budget, according to current and former officers…

Marine Lt. Col. Gordon Miller, a fellow at the Center for a New American Security, warned this week of “potentially devastating consequences, including a fresh round of chemical weapons attacks and a military response by Israel.”

Note: The U.S.A. itself is vulnerable to EMP type attacks and they and/or items such as biological weapons, chemical weapons, terrorism, nuclear weapons, dirty bombs, etc. could affect the U.S.A. because of a conflict involving Iran, Syria, and/or others…

Syria and Barack Obama?

Barack Obama has made a variety of statements suggesting that he would support military action to change the government in Syria. Notice statements that seem to support this from August 20, 2012:

Obama’s tone intensified Monday when the president threatened direct military action if Damascus attempts to use chemical or biological weapons — or slips them to allied militant groups such as al-Qaida:

“We cannot have a situation in which chemical or biological weapons are falling into the hands of the wrong people,” Obama said during a news conference at the White House. “We have been very clear to the Assad regime but also to other players on the ground that a red line for us is, we start seeing a whole bunch of weapons moving around or being utilized. … That would change my equation.”

Might U.S. military intervention with Syria under the Obama Administration be at all prophetic?

Interestingly, some Islamic prophecy suggests that someone like the biblical King of the South, rises up after there is destruction involving Syria and black standards:

Traditions have been reported mentioning the signs for the time of the appearance of the Imam…black standards will advance from Khurasan; al-Yamani will come out in revolt; al-Maghribi will appear in Egypt and take possession of it from Syria; the Turk will occupy the region of al-Jazira; the Byzantines will occupy Ramla; the star will appear in the east giving light just like the moon gives light; then (the new moon) will bend until its two tips almost meet; a colour will appear in the sky and spread to its horizons; a fire will appear for a long time in the east remaining in the air for three or seven days; the Arabs will throw off the reins and take possession of their land, throwing out the foreign authority; the people of Egypt will kill their ruler and destroy Syria; and three standards will dispute over it (Syria)…

The Abbasids will dispute; a voice will call from the sky; one of the villages of Syria called al-Jabiyya will be swallowed up; the Turks will occupy the region of al-Jazira; the Byzantines will attack al-Ramla; at that time there will be much conflict throughout the land until Syria is destroyed.

Could U.S.A. forces under the leadership of Barack Obama be considered to be marching under the black standard? That is hard to say. But the fact is that unlike most Arabs, Syria’s President Assad is a Shi’ite, not Sunni, Muslim, and it is likely that Sunni Muslims will dominate Syria.

Consistent with the above Islamic prophecy, the Bible itself teaches that Damascus will be destroyed (Isaiah 17:1). Might the USA directly or indirectly assist in the destruction of Damascus? Could the black standard have anything to do with a black USA president? If so, this may be another Islamic prophecy possibly involving Barack Obama.

Notice the following:

The Black Banner or Black Standard (راية السوداء rāyat al-sawdā’ , also known as راية العقاب rāyat al-`uqāb “banner of the eagle” or simply as الراية al-rāya “the banner”) is the historical flag flown by Muhammad in Islamic tradition, an eschatological symbol in Shi’a Islam (heralding the advent of the Mahdi), and a symbol used in Islamism and Jihadism.

A black “banner of the eagle,” while possibly being forces of Islam, may also be forces of the USA (the eagle is a symbol of the U.S.A. and others) or the USA, directly or indirectly, supporting an Islamic power that invades Syria–and that is something that the U.S.A. has secretly (now not so-secretly) agreed to do). And even if this “prophecy” was or was not intended to involve the U.S.A./Barack Obama, presuming that more destruction in Syria happens, those Muslims who believe in the Imam Mahdi may well point to Syria’s problems as a sign that the rise of the Imam Mahdi is soon expected. (Thiel B. Barack Obama, Prophecy, and the Destruction of the United States-Second Edition for Second Obama Term. Nazarene Books, 2013, pp. 22-23,25-28)

The USA now seems to be closer to actually attacking Syria. While ultimately Damascus will be destroyed per Isaiah 17:1, this does not mean that there will not be a cost to the USA.

The NFL has agreed to pay a lot of money related to football injuries:

29 August 2013

In an unexpected acknowledgment of the medical damage sustained by professional football players, the National Football League on Thursday reached a tentative settlement to provide $765 million in medical and other benefits to former players suffering from concussion-related brain injuries.

The settlement of a lawsuit brought by 4,500 former players allows the league to avoid years of litigation and the potential for billions of dollars in damages. Current players are not covered by the agreement, which awaits approval by a federal judge.

September 5, 2013, is when the National Football League (NFL) expects to begin its next official season. But, should Christians support violent sports like American football?

Before going further, it was reported last week that ESPN decided against being involved in report which contained some of the truth about the dangers of American football:

August 23, 2013

ESPN on Thursday suddenly ended its collaboration with PBS’ “Frontline” on an investigation into the NFL’s response to concussions and head injuries among players. The investigation includes a documentary, “League Of Denial,” that is set to appear Oct. 8 and 15 on PBS.

Football is dangerous, but we can’t let it go

It would be wonderful if we could make the game safer, but there is far too much satisfaction as a player, owner, coach and consumer to quit. And there is no substitute “patch” for American football.

We are all too selfish to stop.

We now know, or highly suspect, that former players such as Dave Duerson and Junior Seau killed themselves due somewhat to the problems related to the brain trauma suffered in their long careers. We care, but not enough to stop.

We know there are many people who played and do not suffer the ill effects of the game.

You can disagree on the origins or the severity, but what is indisputable is that there is a far greater risk in playing football than we have ever been previously aware…The concussion issue in football is not only genuine, but it is never going away. Studies, and prevailing common sense, say that if you run into something continually at a high speed, eventually your body, and brain, will suffer as a result. http://www.star-telegram.com/2013/08/26/5110575/football-is-dangerous-but-we-cant.html#storylink=cpy

Are you among the selfish that advocates this sport? Can you let it go or do you prefer to watch it knowing that it is harming those who are “entertaining” you?

Competition and not cooperation, is the attitude which Satan inculcates human minds. But that does not mean that all sports are wrong or to be banned. The law of God is based on the way of righteousness…The basic law is love, out flowing toward God above all else, and secondarily, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.”

To harm the other fellow and to gain by doing so for self is a kind of competition that is wrong. Hostility toward the other is sin…

Boxing at Ambassador College is definitely banned. God did not create the human brain and head to be pummeled and knocked senseless by an antagonist.

Wherever a game in sports involves antagonists–in hostile attitude to harm the other and/or to “get” from the other–to get the best of the other then a harmful, satanic and evil attitude enters in, and the sport is evil, not good…

Football (American football) is a violent body-contact sport. It is often played with an attitude of hostility and is dangerous and is fraught with physical injury. (Plain Truth, July-August 1984)

After seeing the injuries that some of my high school football-playing colleagues suffered, I could not reconcile the scriptures with American football. There are better ways for Christians to learn principles like teamwork from other sports or activities than watching actual violence.

John the Baptist taught, “Do violence to no man” (Luke 3:14, KJV), so what about violent sports? The New Testament also warns Christians against being violent or approving of those that are (Romans 1:28-32), while history records that early Christians would not watch violent sports (e.g. Theophilus of Antioch. To Autolycus).

Herbert Armstrong also wrote:

At golf the one who wins is not the one gets the most by taking it away from the other…So golf is not a wrong competition–nor is any race at a distance, or hurdle race, or long jump, high jump, pole vault or other field competition in a track and field meet…

Soccer does not embody the same evils {as American football}. Baseball, softball, volleyball, while competitive, do not necessarily involve hostility, harm to others or trying to prevent the opponent from doing his best. When played in God’s attitude towards others these are acceptable and not prohibited. Satan is the author of competition based upon hostility, harm to the opponent, getting by taking from an opponent–to his harm or loss…

The very name Satan means “adversary.” Satan is an evil adversary, who desires to harm, who has a spirit of hostility.

And yes, some people do sin watching and/or playing soccer. But soccer does not have to be played in a hostile manner that is evil.

Unlike stories of violence in books or movies, American football involves actual violence and often physical injury–including brain damaging ones that are often not obvious for years:

According to the folks at TMZ, 75 former NFL players have sued the league for concealing the risks of concussions. The plaintiffs include former Dolphins receiver Mark Duper (pictured), former Giants and Cardinals running back Ottis Anderson, and former Giants running back Rodney Hampton. Helmet manufacturer Riddell also is named as a defendant in the lawsuit, which was filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court.

The challenge for the plaintiffs will be to prove that the NFL actually knew, or reasonably should have known, the chronic, long-term risks of concussions. Clear links between concussions and long-term health problems have been established only recently, and the league has responded fairly aggressively (especially after a shot across the bow from Congress) to the problem. (Florio M. Report: NFL sued for concealing brain injury risks. NBC Sports, July 19, 2011. http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/07/19/report-nfl-sued-for-concealing-brain-injury-risks/)

Before the former American football player Dave Duerson killed himself, he asked that his brain be left to researchers studying head injuries among athletes. What it revealed shocked the scientists… The lapses in memory, the mood swings, the piercing headaches on the left side of his head, the difficulty spelling simple words, the blurred eyesight. And hanging over it all was his fear that both his material and physical decline might not be coincidental, that they might have been caused by injuries to his brain suffered playing the game he loved so much – football…

McKee takes a deep look at the cross-section of this brain and momentarily appears sad. “This is a brain at the end-stage of disease,” she says. “I would assume that with this amount of damage the person was very cognitively impaired. I would assume they were demented, had substantial problems with their speech and gait, that this person was Parkinsonian, was slow to speak and walk, if he could walk at all.” (Pilkington E. The NFL star and the brain injuries that destroyed him. The Guardian, July 19, 2011. http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/2011/jul/19/nfl-star-brain-injuries-destroyed)

Former players have filed class-action lawsuits against the league, claiming they suffer permanent brain damage as a result of concussions sustained while playing football. Stories recounting the lifelong toll of football injuries are common…Thanks to rule changes aimed at lessening the chances of career-ending injuries, football is a tad less dangerous than it once was. But it is still a game whose appeal lies in its violent nature. You cannot play football at the professional level without having it affect — and quite possibly shorten — the rest of your life. (Nocera J. The Cost of Football Glory. New York Times, February 3, 2012. http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/04/opinion/nocera-the-cost-of-football-glory.html?_r=1)

Now how widespread brain damage from playing football is can be debated (and probably will be). But everyone has to know that crashing into other human beings in order to knock them down and/or stop them from running or throwing is not harmless.

While “love does no harm to a neighbor” (Romans 13:9), what do sports like American football and boxing do? Should Bible believers encourage this?

This is something that Christians, and others, should think about.

For more scriptures, as well as the position of early Christians and others on watching violent sports or participating in other violent pursuits, please see the following:

It is well after sunset in Jerusalem and the 24th day of the month known as Elul has begun there. This is the day that David Pack, leader of the improperly named Restored Church of God (RCG) claimed would have a lot of developments. Here is some of what David Pack said and/or wrote about it (the sermon comments were sent to me and I did not listen to that sermon myself):

Details may begin (and only begin) to come into view on the first of the month of Elul (in God’s calendar—August 7 in the Roman Calendar). A more complete picture will emerge by Elul 24 (August 30). Right now, all are urged to have in their thinking that they will be reassigned to a new nearby Feast site, and those who choose to return to the Body of Christ will attend with what becomes a much bigger organization—probably significantly bigger than the largest splinter! (Crucial Questions—Important Answers! July 19, 2013, http://rcg.org/sep/crucial-questions-important-answers)

Which three leaders are the greatest obstructionists to God’s stated purpose in Haggai—returning HIS people to doing HIS Work? (The Final Announcement. August 2, 2013, http://rcg.org/sep/the-final-announcement)

Next, the 2013 Feast of Tabernacles: This will also be among the most special and inspiring times in Church history. It will be a Feast of unity and harmony among all of God’s people. Everyone will keep this joyous occasion as members of The Restored Church of God in scores of sites across the world. At this time, we have 21 sites, but we anticipate adding many more. In some areas, former splinter brethren will attend our current sites. In other locations, we will have to quickly add new ones. In still other areas, splinter sites will simply become Restored sites. The total number of Feast sites, and where they are, will depend entirely on how many brethren answer the “stirring” of Jesus Christ to return to His Church, and in what areas they live. Details may begin (and only begin) to come into view on the first of the month of Elul (in God’s calendar—August 7 in the Roman Calendar). A more complete picture will emerge by Elul 24 (August 30). Right now, all are urged to have in their thinking that they will be reassigned to a new nearby Feast site, and those who choose to return to the Body of Christ will attend with what becomes a much bigger organization—probably significantly bigger than the largest splinter! (Crucial Questions—Important Answers! July 19, 2013, http://rcg.org/sep/crucial-questions-important-answers)

All Brethren United Soon Part 12 (Sermon)

How could so many things happen in 24 hours?

Minute 26. Three men die- Elul 24, then everyone makes a decision that day.

Minute 29. Certain things about this prophesy is very complex, others are very simple.

Minute 30. No way everything could happen in one day.

Minute 32. Do you care most how the 3 Shephard’s die? In their sleep, by fire?

Do you care who they are?

If God tells us then I want to know otherwise it doesn’t matter.

You are going to find out how they die and who they are.

Minute 33. I know their names 100% sure. Don’t want the names out yet. Now I’m certain I know.

Do you care where it happens? I don’t know where it will happen.

I know how they die and who they are. I’m certain.

Minute 34. How about when they die? They die sooner then we thought.

Do they die together or separately. I know they die together.

Two culminating events. The death of these men is the first. The central point is God is going to bring his people back together/unify his people.

David Pack also claimed:

Saturday, August 31 will be a Sabbath unlike any other in history. It will be the first time in decades that all of God’s people around the world will be meeting together in the same locations for services. Words cannot describe the excitement and happiness that will be everywhere soon after this reunification. In many areas, much of or possibly even entire congregations might “roll over” into The Restored Church of God. Brethren will have had weeks to prepare for this and to “consider their ways” before God. Those who come will have been led to return to the Body of Christ the day before this Sabbath. Reread this last sentence.

Realize that a host of logistical details must be worked out for this to occur. God has been planning this event for thousands of years—at least 3,000—and His Church has been preparing for it for almost a year. Headquarters and our ministers will be ready to receive potentially a great many phone calls from splinter ministers and members even in the days and weeks before August 31. (Why Reunification THIS YEAR!, posted July 5, 2013 http://rcg.org/sep/why-reunification-this-year)

However, as far as I and various others have been able to tell, this simply has not happened. I have been in contact with leaders associated with a variety of Church of God groups in the USA, Africa, New Zealand, the Philippines, and probably elsewhere and none have reported mass defections to RCG nor people indicating that they would do that. Now that this day has officially begun, I have not seen reports suggesting that it is happening yet.

Actually, in the case of the Continuing Church of God, we have had various ones who had started to look towards RCG, reject RCG, and decide to give CCOG greater consideration. We also just uploaded a short YouTube video that may be of interest: Leading the Final Phase of the Work. David Pack certainly is not leading God’s work and his predictive track record is not anywhere near my own.

If you are in RCG, have YOU SEEN THE TYPE OF GROWTH IN INTEREST THIS MONTH THAT DAVID PACK SAID THAT YOU MAY EXPECT? That does not seem to be the case.

David Pack also claimed that God revealed to him that he was Joshua about four years ago. Yet, while the “god of this world” (2 Corinthians 4:4, KJV) may have done that, certainly was not the Creator God of the Bible!

In one respect, today is a day of reckoning for RCG. The “three obstructionist shepherds” he would not publicly identify will not be all together and die today. Now, that does not mean that some COG-related minister(s) could not possibly die today, but David Pack’s interpretations of biblical prophecies in this area are wrong.

Since it is not possible that thousands of Philadelphia Christians will come to RCG by sunset tomorrow, what will you do if you are in or interested in RCG? Can you see that this “reunification” is not happening?

Thousands of years ago, the Prophet Daniel was asked to interpret some handwriting that was written on a wall by only a hand that the king of the area personally witnessed (which is why he ultimately called Daniel to see it). The moral trend in that kingdom was not good according to Daniel (Daniel 5:22-23). After stating that, here is the interpretation that the prophet Daniel gave of that handwriting on the wall:

24 Then the fingers of the hand were sent from Him, and this writing was written.

25 “And this is the inscription that was written:

MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN.

26 This is the interpretation of each word. Mene: God has numbered your kingdom, and finished it; 27 Tekel: You have been weighed in the balances, and found wanting; 28 Peres: Your kingdom has been divided, and given to the Medes and Persians.” (Daniel 5:24-28)

That kingdom was taken over that very night (Daniel 5:30-31).

Now, let us look at the words from the wall and apply them to David Pack.

Mene: Your days being on the top as you view yourself are numbered.

Mene: Despite signs of your failure, will you publicly repent or instead will you take steps to speed your decline up?

Tekel: Your false interpretation of scripture and beliefs about yourself have been weighed in the balances, and found wanting.

Peres/Upharsin: Your empire will be divided by those who will see the truth and leave and those who will accept your provably blatant falsehoods and stay. That cannot be the type of Church that God would want.

Can those in RCG begin to see this yet.

Now, a story I often like to tell people is the story about the Emperor who had no clothes. Basically, the Emperor was very vain about his outward appearance, and some shysters persuaded him to give them a lot of money to make the finest clothes (David Pack wanted to build a facility so fine that all the “splinters” would see it and marvel–and he has built something that he has marveled about, yet Philadelphia-remnant Christians are not impressed by it). The Emperor agreed to do this and then hold a public parade once the clothes were ready.

The shysters persuaded the Emperor and his supporters that the clothes that they were to make would be so fine that only those unworthy of their positions in life could not see them. When the shysters pretended to supply fine clothes to the Emperor (which in reality was absolutely nothing), the Emperor and his staff commented about how fine the clothes were (the staff apparently worried about losing their jobs or influence if they told the truth out loud). The Emperor then took off his clothes and pretended to put the new “clothes” on. He then went outside and walked in a public parade. A small boy, seeing the Emperor, shouted out, “The Emperor is naked. The Emperor has no clothes!”

People tried to shut the boy up. One or more in the audience said to him, “Boy, you are not worthy of your position as you cannot see these fine clothes.” Others said, “Wait, he is only a small boy. Of course, he is worthy of his position. The Emperor is naked.” Then, when the crowd realized that no one saw the non-existent clothes, they laughed and laughed. The Emperor was extremely humiliated.

Can those in RCG now see that David Pack is NOT GOD’S Apostle? Will any children ask their parents at RCG services this coming Sabbath, “Where are all the people that Mr. Pack said would come with us?” Will adults ask themselves the same question? Will they admit the truth?

In the case of David Pack, he seemed to believe that if he had a new headquarters’ building that this would be enough to get people to come to him and that this was God’s plan. But it was never God’s plan, but the imagination and vanity of David Pack and many of his followers. Can they see the truth now or how many more false interpretations from David Pack will it take?

David Pack’s interpretations and predictions about what was supposed to happen by now have been wrong. More will be proven wrong by sunset tomorrow and later as well.

Will you personally admit the truth? If any of you in RCG have actual facts that disprove or prove what I am writing here, please contact me. My email remains cogwriter@aol.com.

If you are in RCG, can you see that your “emperor” is naked (which is my opinion what his improper interpretations show)? Can you see the handwriting on the wall?

Could the following apply to you?

15 “I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. 16 So then, because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. 17 Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’ — and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked — 18 I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. 19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent. (Revelation 3:15-19)

Turning to God is the only answer–and it is not just those in RCG that need to do that. This is something you can do. Do not let your own vanity get in the way. David Pack is wrong.

Syria’s President Assad tells of being victorious against what he calls the “true enemy” of Syria:

29 August 2013

CAIRO: The US and UK on Thursday appeared to have backed down from an immediate punitive military strike against Syria, even as embattled President Bashar al-Assad vowed that his country would emerge “victorious” in any confrontation with America and its allies.

A strike by western forces had appeared imminent but US allies were increasingly reluctant to act before hearing the results of a UN probe into the alleged poisonous gas attacks in the war-torn country on August 21…British Prime Minister David Cameron backed down and agreed to delay a military attack on Syria following a growing revolt over the UK’s rushed response to the crisis.

The prime minister has now said he will wait for a report by UN weapons inspectors before seeking the approval of MPs for “direct British involvement” in the Syrian intervention…

Meanwhile, President Assad remained defiant amid heightened tensions, saying “Since the start of the crisis, as you know, we have waited for our true enemy to reveal itself.”

“I know that your morale is good and that you are ready to face any attack and to save the homeland,” Al-Akhbar newspaper quoted Assad as telling Syrian officials.

“It’s a historic confrontation from which we will emerge victorious,” the paper quoted him as saying.

Prime Minister Wael al-Halqi on Wednesday had accused western countries of “inventing” excuses to take military action against his country.

“Western countries, starting with the United States, are inventing fake scenarios and fictitious alibis to intervene militarily in Syria,” he was quoted as saying by state television.

Halqi said his country would become a “graveyard of the invaders” if there were a military intervention.

THE WHITE HOUSE — U.S. President Barack Obama says he has not yet made a decision about how to respond to what the United States sees as the use of chemical weapons in Syria, but he says that Washington has concluded that Syria’s government carried out the attacks.

In an interview with the Public Broadcasting Service late Wednesday, Obama said he continues to have extensive discussions with his national security team and has received options from the military.

He said the U.S. has concluded that the government of President Bashar al-Assad on August 21 carried out an attack in a Damascus suburb, killing hundreds of people.

The president said the violation of an international norm against use of chemical weapons, in a volatile region, makes it necessary to respond.

“We have concluded that the Syrian government in fact carried these out and if that is so, then there need to be international consequences, so we are consulting with our allies, we are consulting with the international community. I have no interest in any kind of open-ended conflict in Syria, but we do have to make sure that when countries break international norms on weapons like chemical weapons that could threaten us, they are held accountable,” said Obama.

The U.S. president was asked what a military strike, even a limited one, would accomplish.

Damascus Will Be Destroyed

Syria is in the news on a regular basis. The conflict began on March 15, 2011 with nationwide demonstrations which seem to have partially inspired by the so-called “Arab Spring.” This escalated into violence. Since the opposition to its President Bashar al-Assad arose in, tens of thousands have been killed.

Western leaders have consulted amongst themselves and with Russia on how to try to resolve this matter. Some Western nations have helped arm the opposition to President Assad with a goal of a stable and truly peaceful Syria in mind.

While a stable and peaceful Syria would be a major improvement, even if that is temporarily attained, it will not remain that way.

Bible Prophecy Warns that Syria’s Capital Will Be Destroyed

Both biblical and Islamic prophecy foretell of the destruction of at least parts of Syria, such as Damascus. Here is some of what Bible prophecies teach:

7 thus says the Lord God: “It shall not stand, Nor shall it come to pass. 8 For the head of Syria is Damascus (Isaiah 7:7-8).

3 Thus says the Lord: “For three transgressions of Damascus, and for four, I will not turn away its punishment, Because they have threshed Gilead with implements of iron. (Amos 1:3)

1 The burden against Damascus. “Behold, Damascus will cease from being a city, And it will be a ruinous heap. (Isaiah 17:1)

23 Against Damascus. “Hamath and Arpad are shamed, For they have heard bad news. They are fainthearted; There is trouble on the sea; It cannot be quiet. 24 Damascus has grown feeble; She turns to flee, And fear has seized her. Anguish and sorrows have taken her like a woman in labor. 25 Why is the city of praise not deserted, the city of My joy? 26 Therefore her young men shall fall in her streets, And all the men of war shall be cut off in that day,” says the Lord of hosts. 27 “I will kindle a fire in the wall of Damascus, And it shall consume the palaces of Ben-Hadad.” (Jeremiah 49:23-27)

Damascus has been claimed to be the “oldest continuously inhabited city” in the world. And while some have questioned that, the reality is that Damascus has not been destroyed to the point of becoming the “ruinous heap” since God inspired Isaiah to record that.

This destruction could come as the result of the current civil war. And if the Assad regime uses chemical weapons and/or becomes engaged in a conflict with Israel, that could also fulfill the above.

Furthermore, because the Bible suggests that Syria will be involved in a confederation of North African and Middle Eastern nations (Ezekiel 30:1-9; Psalm 83:4-8) who will support a leader that the Bible refers to as the final King of the South (Daniel 11:40-43), this likely means that the Assad regime will have to at least change, if not completely fall, and that whatever regime replaces it, it will most likely agree to be in this prophesied confederation. A confederation that is also prophesied to fail (which is something that all in the Middle East and North Africa will be better off realizing). The Muslim Brotherhood has long pushed for the type of confederation that the Bible warns will involve many Arabic nations and end in the destruction of this confederation (Daniel 11:40-43; Ezekiel 30:1-9).

Islamic Prophecy

Interestingly, there are various Islamic views on an Muslim leader, sometimes called the Imam Mahdi rising up (who could be the King of the South of Daniel 11:40-43) in a time related to Syria. Here is one that suggests this Islamic leader does so after Syria has problems:

Traditions have been reported mentioning the signs for the time of the appearance of the Imam who will arise (qa’im), peace be on him, and the events which will take place before his appearance, together with the indications and features of it. Among them are: The Sufyani will come out in revolt; the Hasanid will be killed; the Abbasids will dispute over worldly kingdom…the people of Egypt will kill their ruler and destroy Syria; and three standards will dispute over it (Syria)…

The Abbasids will dispute; a voice will call from the sky; one of the villages of Syria called al-Jabiyya will be swallowed up; the Turks will occupy the region of al-Jazira; the Byzantines will attack al-Ramla; at that time there will be much conflict throughout the land until Syria is destroyed. (Kitab al Irshad Chapter: The Twelfth Imam (Peace be on him) Page (s): 541 – 548 Published by Tehrike Tersile Qura’n. Contributed by Br. Ali Abbas, abbas@seas.gwu.edu http://www.al-islam.org/masoom/bios/12thimam.html viewed 7/22/12)

So, there are biblical and Islamic prophecies suggesting destruction to at least parts of Syria and the rise of a leader in the region of the Middle East and North Africa. And while I am relying on biblical prophecy, it may be that some in the Islamic world may decide that Islamic prophecy is encouraging them to change the situation currently in Syria…

More trouble is coming to Damascus as it will be destroyed (Isaiah 17:1). An Islamic confederation that will include the land of Syria is coming (Daniel 11:40-43; Ezekiel 30:1-8; Psalm 83:4-8) is coming.

“And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!” (Mark 13:37).

While what US President Obama seems to be proposing will not destroy Damascus–yet–more trouble is coming to Damascus as it will be destroyed (Isaiah 17:1). An Islamic confederation that will include the land of Syria is coming (Daniel 11:40-43; Ezekiel 30:1-8; Psalm 83:4-8) is coming. There will be other troubles for Israel. And the USA will not end up unscathed.

Since the Bible suggests that Syria will support the coming final King of the South (Daniel 11:40-43; Ezekiel 30:1-8), a change in or from the Assad regime will be necessary for this to happen–and it will come to pass. Syria’s Assad will either change, break his prior public commitment to not step down or go into exile, and/or die or be killed. He will not keep Syria as he has forever.

Some time back, David Hulme of COGaIC interviewed John Garr about Church History, and here is how that interview began:

Reexamining the roots of Christianity has become a major endeavor among New Testament scholars. In an attempt to better understand and relate to Judaism in the wake of the Holocaust/Shoah, their studies have yielded some surprising admissions and necessary corrections to the way Jesus of Nazareth, Paul of Tarsus and the early Church are regarded. A general conclusion is that first-century Christianity was far more Jewish or Hebraic in its beliefs and practices than has been accepted for almost 2,000 years.

One scholar who has pondered the implications of these rediscovered roots is John Garr, president of Restoration Foundation, which specializes in making known the Hebrew heritage of what came to be called Christianity. Vision publisher David Hulme interviewed him…

DH You have written: “In the middle of the second century, the Hebrew foundations of Christian faith were attacked by the first great heresy that challenged the church.” You also note that “some of the ideas of this heresy so permeated the church’s corporate psyche that it has not yet fully recovered its spiritual and scriptural equilibrium.” What was the heresy and what has been its specific effect?

JG The heresy was called Marcionism after Marcion, a very wealthy man who was strongly influenced by Hellenic culture, the ideas of Plato, and much of Gnosticism. Marcion wanted to separate Christianity from any connection with Judaism and the law. He said that the Old Testament was a record of a failed religion that should be destroyed, and actually had been destroyed by Jesus Himself. He even went so far as to rewrite Matthew 5:17, where Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount, “Think not that I have come to destroy the Law or the Prophets: I have not come to destroy them but to fulfill them.” Marcion turned it around and said that Jesus’ actual words were “Think not that I have come to fulfill the Law or the Prophets: I have not come to fulfill them but to destroy them.” Further, he took some of Paul’s epistles and some sections of the book of Luke and edited them to eliminate any connection with Judaism or the Old Testament. As a result of his actions, church leaders finally branded him a heretic and excommunicated him.

With this background one would think Marcion would have faded into history, but the residue of his influence has continued to permeate the Christian church even to the present time. It is probably best characterized as antinomianism—the position of being against the law—which is very much a part of many denominations. Many antinomians would say that they are preaching the gospel of the grace of God, and that grace and law are violently opposed to each other and cannot exist in one another’s presence. So the idea that the law has been completely abrogated, that the Old Testament is no more of any effect, that Jesus came to destroy the law, and that believers today are only under the grace of God, is fundamentally neo-Marcionism…Von Harnack’s thinking in this regard was really a pure form of neo-Marcionism. He went so far as to say that if the church had had the courage to do so, it would have recognized that Marcion was right, that Judaism had been abolished and the law destroyed. He was very adamant about that view.

The above interview did not go into much more detail about Marcion and his heresies, but there is an article at the COGwriter.com website that does: Marcion: The First Protestant?

Irenaeus in the second century noted that the faithful Polycarp opposed Marcion:

Polycarp, and other true early Christian writers, kept all the ten commandments that were first mentioned in the Old Testament (an article of related interest may be The Ten Commandments and the Early Church). This is how Polycarp (and others) differed from many of the early heretics like Marcion.

Another to specifically opposed Marcion was Theophilus of Antioch (late 2nd century). The Syriatic version of Eusebius’ Church History notes:

BUT as to Theophilus, concerning whom we have said that he was Bishop of Antioch, there are three treatises by him against Antolycus, and another which is inscribed “Against the heresy of Hermogenes,” in which he uses testimonies from the Revelation of John; and there are other books by him which are suitable for teaching. But those, who pertained to heretical doctrine, even at that time like tares were corrupting the pure seed of the doctrine of the Apostles; but the Pastors which were in the churches in every country, were driving them like beasts of the wilderness away from the flock of Christ; at one time by teaching and exhortation to the Brethren, but at another time openly before their faces they contended with them in discussion, and put them to shame; and again, also, by writing treatises they diligently refuted and exposed their opinions. But Theophilus, together with others, contended against them; and he is celebrated for one treatise, which was ably composed by him against Marcion, which, together with the others that I have already mentioned, is still preserved. And after him Maximinus received the Bishoprick of the Church of Antioch, who was the seventh after the Apostles.

But Philip, respecting whom we have learned from the words of Dionysius, Bishop of Corinth,2 that he was Bishop of the church of the city of Gortyna, he also composed with accuracy a treatise against Marcion (Eusebius of Caesarea, Ecclesiastical History, Syriac version, Book 4 (Extract), Chapter 24. Spicilegium Syriacum (1855). This text was transcribed by Roger Pearse, Ipswich, UK, 2003. Greek text is rendered using the Scholars Press SPIonic font/Polytonic Greek).

This is of interest because it shows that both Philip and Theophilus also wrote against the heretic Marcion (though the document, while apparently available to Eusebius, is currently unavailable).

Notice what the Protestant historian Kenneth Latourette stated:

Marcion insisted that the Church had obscured the Gospel by seeking to combine it with Judaism (Latourette KS. A History of Christianity, Volume 1: to A.D. 1500. HarperCollins, San Francisco, 1975, p. 126).

In other words, the original true Church of God truly did combine faith in Christ with practices that Marcion considered to be to Jewish. And Marcion was denounced by leaders from Asia Minor for rejecting the true faith.

Most know very little about early church history or where their doctrines came from–and what many think they know is clouded by misinformation and misconceptions.

But those willing to be called and led by God can find the truth in the Bible and the scattered records of early church history

Those interested in early Christianity may wish to read the following documented articles to learn more:

Iranian leaders are watching events and threatening war if the West acts against Syria:

August 28, 2013

BEIRUT—Syria and Iran denounced the U.S. and warned of regional chaos, including retaliation against Israel, should the U.S. launch strikes on Syria.

The escalation of rhetoric came as the U.K. spearheaded efforts Wednesday to introduce a United Nations Security Council resolution that would seek authorization for military action against Syria and vowed to seek other avenues of support should the council reject it.

Officials from Iran, Syria’s chief ally, said publicly for the first time that U.S.-led strikes on Syria would provoke retaliation on Israel. “Any attack on Syria would burn down Israel,” Iranian news media reported Maj. Gen. Hassan Firouzabadi, chief of staff of Iran’s armed forces, as saying.

America’s expected “limited” strikes in Syria could push the country into an even more dangerous and unpredictable downward spiral or even an international crisis, but doing nothing may be unconscionable and has consequences of its own.

The United Nations has resumed its visits to sites outside Damascus, but is asking for more time before action is taken. The U.S. and several other allies seem to be on the verge of military preparations, which is causing nations like Iraq to fear retaliatory response. NBC’s Richard Engel reports from Antakya, Turkey.

Iran has suggested in the past that it could take on the West. It seems to feel that if it causes enough destruction, a leader called the Imam Mahdi will later rise up and insure an Islamic victory over the West. This is a wrong and misguided view as, although the Bible does tell of an end time apparently Islamic leader rising up it calls the King of the South, it also shows that eventually a European power will eliminate him (Daniel 11:40-43).

Since Iran is not the final King of the South of Bible prophecy (it is basically straight East, not South, of Jerusalem) yet is a significant military power among the Islamic nations, I have long felt that it will have to have its influence somewhat ‘neutralized.’ This is likely to come from a regional war and/or civil uprising. At this moment, many there are edging toward war. The report that Iran will stop of implementation of the additional protocol of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty shows that it is moving forward for plans that seem war-like.

The Bible is clear that Damascus, the capital of Syria will be destroyed:

8 For the head of Syria is Damascus (Isaiah 7:8)

1 The burden against Damascus. “Behold, Damascus will cease from being a city, And it will be a ruinous heap. (Isaiah 17:1)

But, notice also Islamic prophecy:

Traditions have been reported mentioning the signs for the time of the appearance of the Imam who will arise (qa’im), peace be on him, and the events which will take place before his appearance, together with the indications and features of it. Among them are: The Sufyani will come out in revolt; the Hasanid will be killed; the Abbasids will dispute over worldly kingdom; there will be an eclipse of the sun in the middle of the month of Ramadan; there will be an eclipse of the moon at the end of that month in contrast to ordinary happenings; the land will be swallowed up at al-Bayda’; it will be swallowed in the east-it will be swallowed up in the west; the sun will stay still from the time of its decline to the middle of the time for the afternoon prayer; it will rise from the west; a pure soul (nafs zakiyya) will be killed in the outskirts of Kufa with seventy righteous men; a Hashimite will be slaughtered between the corner (of the Ka’ba) and the station of Abraham); the wall of the mosque of Kufa will be destroyed; black standards will advance from Khurasan; al-Yamani will come out in revolt; al-Maghribi will appear in Egypt and take possession of it from Syria; the Turk will occupy the region of al-Jazira; the Byzantines will occupy Ramla; the star will appear in the east giving light just like the moon gives light; then (the new moon) will bend until its two tips almost meet; a colour will appear in the sky and spread to its horizons; a fire will appear for a long time in the east remaining in the air for three or seven days; the Arabs will throw off the reins and take possession of their land, throwing out the foreign authority; the people of Egypt will kill their ruler and destroy Syria; and three standards will dispute over it (Syria)…

The Abbasids will dispute; a voice will call from the sky; one of the villages of Syria called al-Jabiyya will be swallowed up; the Turks will occupy the region of al-Jazira; the Byzantines will attack al-Ramla; at that time there will be much conflict throughout the land until Syria is destroyed. (Kitab al Irshad Chapter: The Twelfth Imam (Peace be on him) Page (s): 541 – 548 Published by Tehrike Tersile Qura’n. Contributed by Br. Ali Abbas, abbas@seas.gwu.edu http://www.al-islam.org/masoom/bios/12thimam.html viewed 7/22/12)

Some in Iran may see the Arab Spring, the removal of Egypt’s President Morsi (especially if he, or perhaps his predecessor Hosni Mubarek is killed or otherwise dies) as well as a war involving Syria as the fulfillment of Islamic prophecy and the event leading to the ultimate rise of Iran. This will be a mistake for Iran, but since some events have been consistent with certain Islamic prophecies, many in Iran would want to support this. Although major military aggression will be a disaster for Iran, this does not mean that parties that may be involved such as Israel and/or the USA will not be unscathed. The reality is that the cost to the USA and/or Israel for a regional war involving Iran and/or Syria will be higher than many in the USA or Israel believe. Between terrorist acts, sustained resistance, chemical weapons (Syria Reportedly Has Loaded Chemical Weapons into Bombs), biological weapons, Electro-magnetic pulse bombs (EMP attack can do more than knock-out electricity), and/or even disruptions of the internet (Iran Believed to be Behind Cyber-Attacks Against US Banks), Iran and/or Syria can inflict significant damage to their enemies. The possible cyber-attacks are just one more way Iran can cause consternation (it may be both on the receiving and sending end of that as well as EMP attacks).

The Imam Mahdi that many in the Islamic world sounds like the biblical King of the South. Notice also the following:

But who is the “king of the south”?…in verse 40 we skip to “the time of the end”…The verse undoubtedly found partial fulfillment in the offensive of 1896…But Mussolini did not finish the prophecy…Just as there is yet to be a final “king of the north”…there may very well emerge in the same manner a final “king of the south”–an overall leader of an Arab-Moslem confederation, possibly bearing the very title Mahdi…a prophetic psalm (Psalm 83) provides additional insight into the Mideast picture. Germany (Assyria in Bible prophecy) and perhaps the rest of Europe will be in league in the future with a union of Arab nations…But in the end, this European-Arab alliance will prove short-lived…And the king of the north shall come against him [the king of the south]…Daniel 11:40-41…The Arab-Moslem Confederation will, of course, be thrown into chaotic disarray in the fact of invasion. (Stump K. The Arab World in Prophecy. Plain Truth, December 1979, pp. 11-12).

Interestingly, within Islam, there is a belief that someone who sounds like the biblical “King of the South” of Daniel 11, who they tend to call the Mahdi or 12th Imam will participate in a deal like the one in Daniel 9:27…the Bible predicts the rise in the end time of a Future King of the South—and this person may be the one that Muslims will consider to be their prophesied “Mahdi.” …“the Muslim World League issued a fatwa in October of 1976 commanding Sunni Muslims to believe in the concept of an Islamic Savior called the Mahdi.”…Shi’ites also would do well to recognize that just because someone may claim to be the final Imam (or Mahdi), does not mean that God will agree that he should be followed. Neither Sunnis nor Shi’ites should support one who will appear to possibly be the final Imam in the next decade; whoever claims to be will be defeated soundly (Daniel 11:40-43). (Thiel B. 2012 and the Rise of the Secret Sect, Nazarene Books, 2009).

Now, while I do not believe that the Iranian version of the Imam Mahdi will appear and accomplish want Iran’s leadership seems to want, it may be that after the destruction of Damascus that the Islamic world will decide that it must support some type of a strong-man dictator. This leader will likely profess some version of Islam, while his focus will be conquest. But the Bible shows that he will ultimately fail and come to his end (Daniel 11:40-43).

However, because Iran’s leaders keep pushing for their version of the Imam Mahdi, they may very well be setting the stage for an Arabic King of the South to rise up. But if Iran does follow through with its rhetoric, it may find itself effectively eliminated or neutralized very soon.